Bell Ringers Return To Storefronts Across Metro Detroit For Salvation Army's Red Kettle Campaign

SOUTHFIELD (WWJ) - The Salvation Army's annual Red Kettle Campaign is officially in full swing as those red kettles hit storefronts across metro Detroit.

The goal of this year's campaign, which began Friday, is to raise $8.4 million to help families in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties.

The campaign begins on the heels of new data from the U.S. Census Bureau, which indicates that while metro Detroit's median household income has increased more than two percent, poverty rates remain flat at 16 percent. Among communities with more than 65,000 residents, Detroit continues to post some of the nation's highest poverty rates at nearly 40 percent; Detroit's poverty rate for children is higher at 58 percent.

But Detroit is not alone. Oakland and Macomb Counties have also experienced spikes in poverty levels since the recession in 2008. According to the Brookings Institute, one in three poor Americans -- about 16.4 million people – lives in the suburbs.

Red kettle donations during the campaign are vital in ensuring the organization can continue providing more than 2.7 million meals and more than 652,000 nights of shelter that are the hallmarks of The Salvation Army. But they also provide critical funding for after school and camp programs for children, drug and alcohol rehabilitation and programs to help families break the cycle of poverty and work toward financial stability.

The Salvation Army combats poverty without discrimination using the funds raised during the Red Kettle Campaign. All funds stay in the community in which the donations are made.

"The Salvation Army is asking for the tri-county community to give generously at red kettles across metro Detroit this holiday season," Salvation Army Major Russell Sjögren said in a statement. "The funds raised help change people's lives throughout the year, not only during the Christmas season. With the community's help, we will be able to aid so many children and families living in our own hometown. And we are proud that for every dollar we receive, $.87 goes directly to programs and services for local residents."

Many Ways to Donate

Everyone can give hope by donating at hundreds of red kettles at storefronts throughout metro Detroit. Retailers and entertainment venues hosting red kettles in 2016 include: Kroger, Walmart, Sam's Club, Walgreens, Big Lots, Hobby Lobby, JCPenney, Macy's, Emagine Theaters, Busch's Market, Hollywood Market, Carson's, Kmart and Dollar Tree.

To make a tax deductible contribution to The Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign:
• Visit www.salmich.org
• Text "SALMICH" to 41444 to donate any amount via mobile phone
• Call 877-SAL-MICH
• Send a check or money order, made payable to The Salvation Army, to: 16130 Northland Dr., Southfield, MI 48075